So, you're planning to film at theNational Poetry Slam 2008 in Madison?

Thank you for your interest in documenting the National Poetry Slam! To help us to meet your needs, we've compiled the following information to help you get started.

First, it's important to know that you will need to have either a personal release form (for home use only) or a press pass to shoot at the National Poetry Slam. Poetry Slam, Inc. owns all rights to all footage, still images, and audio recorded within the stage areas of the National Poetry Slam. This is to protect our artists from inadvertent use of their performances without their permission, and to protect the image and future of Poetry Slam, Inc. -- but we DO want to help you complete your project!

What we'll need from you:

For a Media Pass:

Media Passes (which give the bearer full access to all events, including Finals Night) will be granted to individuals representing companies that are media outlets which will give Poetry Slam, Inc. valuable consideration in terms of press coverage, as deemed by PSI.

In order to be considered for a media pass, you MUST FAX, mail, or e-mail one or more of the following :

• Original Letter of Assignment from news director, assignment editor, publisher or producer.
• Hard copy or web address of most recent publication or feature on Spoken Word, Poetry, or Slam.
• I.D. from an accredited media organization or association

For a Community Pass:

Community Press (Volunteer) Passes, which give the bearer full access to all events EXCEPT Finals Night, will be granted to individuals who can demonstrate that they represent a valuable part of their local Slam's community, as deemed by PSI. ANY MEDIA RIGHTS GRANTED UNDER THIS BANNER ARE FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY. SALE OF THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

In order to be considered for a Community Press pass, you MUST fax, mail, or e-mail one or more of the following :

• Links to existing websites or archives, or samples of print or audio works.
• Letter from local Slam master.
• Potentially a resume or demo reel, upon request.

For a Personal-Use Only Pass:

All shooters, even for home use only, will be required to sign a Video/Film/Audio release, which essentially grants the right to film for home use ONLY. The shooter will then be given a badge which must be carried at all times and presented upon demand, or Poetry Slam Inc. reserves the right to shut down and/or confiscate your recording. PROMOTIONAL USE OR SALE OF THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

Essentially, this grants the right of the bearer to shoot for personal use only. Why not even promotional use without permission? Because PSI wants only the finest representation of its artists to show case what our movement is all about. But if you ask, we can discuss it.

All rights to footage can be negotiated for any level of use. Some will require payment for licensing, some will not.

Professional videos being created for national distribution or sale will require professional licensing. Current rates range from $6-$24/second, or alternative negotiation.

Videos being created on a not-for-profit basis: contact PSI to discuss options, at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it